JBL VLA901i - 1000W 2 x 15-inch Passive 3-Way Full-Range Line Array Loudspeaker with 2 x MF/3 x HF Drivers and 90-Degree Horizontal Coverage in Black Finish

The JBL Professional VLA901Hi is a cutting-edge, high-output 3-way passive full-range line array loudspeaker, part of the renowned VLAi Series, designed to deliver powerful, high-impact sound reinforcement for permanent installations. With a 1000W power rating, this speaker is built to cover large venues and demanding environments, offering broad sound coverage and high intelligibility. The VLA901Hi features a nominal 90-degree horizontal coverage, ideal for expansive sound distribution, making it suitable for large-scale indoor and outdoor venues, including arenas, auditoriums, and outdoor events. Its advanced design ensures even coverage and exceptional performance across large areas.

The VLA901Hi delivers an impressive frequency range from 41 Hz to 20 kHz, providing deep, powerful bass, clear midrange, and crisp highs. The loudspeaker utilizes JBL's proprietary Differential Drive technology for efficiency, delivering high output while minimizing weight. The system comprises 2 x JBL 2265H 15-inch low-frequency (LF) drivers with dual 3-inch voice coils, 2 x JBL 2169H 8-inch mid-frequency (MF) drivers, and 3 x JBL 2492H 1.5-inch exit compression high-frequency (HF) drivers. These high-quality components ensure superior sound clarity, depth, and range. The speaker's maximum peak output is an impressive 149.6 dB SPL, capable of producing powerful sound even in the largest venues.

One of the standout features of the VLA901Hi is its modular horn-loaded design. The horn-loaded mid and high-frequency sections maximize sensitivity and optimize pattern control, allowing for precise sound directionality. The VLA901Hi's 90-degree horizontal coverage is perfect for filling large spaces with even sound, ensuring that listeners across a wide area receive the same high-quality audio. The vertical coverage of the speaker varies with the array size and configuration, allowing for flexibility in larger line array systems. The system also includes an external tri-amp crossover with crossover points at 250 Hz and 1.7 kHz, providing seamless integration of the LF, MF, and HF sections for a cohesive listening experience.

Durability is key with the VLA901Hi. The speaker is built with a rugged rectangular enclosure made from 18mm and 16mm (5/8-inch) exterior-grade Baltic birch plywood, ensuring long-lasting structural integrity. The grille is made from powder-coated 14-gauge perforated steel with cloth backing for protection against physical damage while maintaining acoustic transparency. The VLA901Hi also comes with JBL's DuraFlex finish for added durability. Designed for both indoor and outdoor environments, the speaker is IP56-rated for dust and water resistance, ensuring reliable performance even in harsh conditions. The WRC (weather-resistant coating) version offers additional protection, making it suitable for outdoor installations where the speaker is sheltered from direct exposure to weather elements.

The VLA901Hi features flexible rigging options with 16 suspension points (4 top, 4 bottom, 4 each side), allowing for secure and customizable installations. The speaker's robust construction ensures reliable, high-performance sound reproduction in permanent installations across a variety of environments. Whether it's being used as part of a large array for a concert venue or as part of a smaller, distributed cluster for more intimate settings, the VLA901Hi excels in delivering consistent, clear, and powerful sound.

Features

• 1000W power rating with 2 x 15-inch woofers, 2 x mid-frequency drivers, and 3 x high-frequency drivers for high-output, full-range sound reinforcement.
• Frequency range: 41 - 20 kHz, with 90-degree horizontal coverage for expansive sound distribution across large venues.
• Maximum peak output of 149.6 dB SPL, ensuring powerful, high-impact sound even in large environments.
• Advanced JBL Differential Drive technology for high output, low weight, and efficient performance.
• 90-degree horizontal coverage ensures wide-area sound distribution, ideal for large-scale applications.
• IP56 environmental protection rating for dust and water resistance, ensuring reliable performance in tough conditions.
• WRC weather-resistant coating for sheltered outdoor environments, offering additional protection against environmental elements.
• External tri-amp crossover system with custom DSP processing for optimal frequency management and sound performance.
• Rugged 12-ply birch plywood enclosure with durable DuraFlex finish for long-lasting reliability in permanent installations.
• 16 suspension points for flexible rigging and secure installation in various configurations.
• Dimensions: 20.8 x 53.0 x 30.2 inches.
• Weight: 236 lbs.

Specifications

System

• Frequency Range (-10 dB): 41 - 20 kHz
• Frequency Range (-6 dB): 45 - 19.5 kHz
• Frequency Range (-3 dB): 50 - 19.2 kHz
• Coverage Pattern:
  • Horizontal: 90° Nominal (400 - 16 kHz)
  • Vertical: Varies with Array size and configuration
• System Sensitivity (2.83V @ 1m):
  • LF (2.83V @ 1m / 1W @ 1m): 99dB / 96dB
  • MF (2.83V @ 1m / 1W @ 1m): 102dB / 102dB
  • HF (2.83V @ 1m / 1W @ 1m): 115dB / 112dB
• System Impedance:
  • LF: 4 ohms
  • MF: 8 ohms
  • HF: 4 ohms
• System Power Rating:
  • LF (100hrs/2hrs): 1000W / 1300W
  • MF: 550W
  • HF: 350W
• Maximum Peak Output:
  • System: 149.6 dB SPL
  • LF: 136.1 dB SPL
  • MF: 146.0 dB SPL
  • HF: 145.4 dB SPL
• System Processing:
  • Crossover: External Tri-Amp
  • Crossover Frequencies: 250 Hz, 1.7 kHz
  • Recommended Processing: Custom DSP Processing (IR and FIR) for Crown ITHD, IT4x3500HD and DCIN, and DCi-DA

Transducers

• Low Frequency: 2 x JBL 2265H, 15 inch diameter, dual 3 inch diameter voice coil, Neodymium Differential Drive
• Mid Frequency: 2 x JBL 2169H, 8 inch diameter, dual 3 inch diameter voice coil, Neodymium Differential Drive
• High Frequency: 3 x JBL 2492H, 1.5 inch exit compression driver, 3 inch voice coil
• Transducer Power Rating:
  • LF: 1400W / 1700W
  • MF: 500W
  • HF: 250W

Physical

• Enclosure: Rectangular 18mm and 16mm (5/8 in) exterior grade Baltic birch plywood
• Finish: Standard finish and optional weather resistant versions (WRC and -WRC) available. Back Duraflex finish. White (WH) available upon request.
• Grille: Powder coated 14 gauge perforated steel with cloth backing
• Additional Grille: Three-layer powder coated 16 gauge perforated stainless steel with cloth backing and stainless steel mesh.
• Environmental IP Rating: IP56
• Suspension: 16 points (4 top and bottom, 4 each side), threaded M10. Additional sealing neoprene stainless steel washers.
• Input Connectors: Barrier strip for #6 spade lug, including gland nut and cover plate.
• Dimensions: 20.8 x 53.0 x 30.2 inches
• Weight: 236 lbs